Transparent glass floods the interior spaces with brilliant sunlight and reduces the need for artificial lighting.

The Astrup Fearnley Museet is a new contemporary art museum on the edge of the water in Oslo, Norway and part of a larger development called the Tjuvholmen Icon Complex. Genoa-based Renzo Piano Building Workshop is responsible for the design of the museum, which consists of three buildings – the museum, office space and a cultural centre. The museum experience begins outside as visitors approach the building along the canal to enjoy the water and the new park. Inside, the museum holds a number of permanent and temporary collections as well as a restaurant and cafe.

The buildings are joined together by a large bridge with the construction of the project influenced by local ship building with rigging and a sail-inspired roof. All three buildings are covered by large overhanging roofs with the same curve which makes it seem as though they were covered by only one roof. The roof dips down near the edges and the park to protect it from the elements and the wind coming from the sea. Transparent glass floods the interior spaces with brilliant sunlight and reduces the need for artificial lighting. Built from glass, steel and wood, the simple materials reflect traditional Norwegian construction and will remain durable and long lasting. The museum was recently completed and is now open to the public.